Book International Hostels

Frequently Asked Questions


One of the main reasons people contact us is to ask questions about their planned group trip. Many ask similar questions, so to help you we have listed answers to these Frequently Asked Questions for your reference. However, these are only meant as a guide for your planning, should you have any additional questions or requirements not addressed here, simply submit these to our National Sales Manager at groups@hiusa.org.

How many people are considered a group?
Can I make an online reservation for my group?
Is the reservation request sent directly to the hostel?
How do I proceed if my group plans to visit countries outside the US?
What do I do if my group wants to visit several US cities?
May I make group reservations at any HI hostel?
What are your terms and conditions?
Do I get a discount for booking a group?
Can I book activities for my group?


How many people are considered a group?
In general, 10 or more people traveling together are considered "a group". If you have a smaller group but still have trip questions please let us know, as we would be pleased to help you.

Can I make an online reservation for my group?
No, this is because group trips require careful planning and special arrangements, it is better that you do not attempt to book and pay for the beds online. Instead, you should initially contact our National Sales Manager directly to help determine your requirements to make your group's stay as comfortable and trouble-free as possible. We will send you a reply with options and the answers to your questions. If our response does not adequately meet your requirements - please tell us!

Is the reservation request sent directly to the hostel?
No, all request forms go to our National Sales Manager, who is very experienced with group reservations. She will communicate with the hostel and then either contact you or have the hostel contact you directly.

How do I proceed if my group plans to visit countries outside the US?
Please contact our National Sales Manager with your questions, including destination, group size and prospective dates at groups@hiusa.org.

What do I do if my group wants to visit several US cities?
It is easy to do this. Simply inform our National Sales Manager during your initial inquiry and indicate the locations, she will help coordinate your trip including multiple hostel reservations.

May I make group reservations at any HI hostel?
Yes, based on availability, all HI hostels can accommodate groups. However, our key destination gateway hostel facilities are best suited for group stays. We know from experience that groups need a little extra care and attention when it comes to arranging accommodations and itinerary planning, and these hostels are best equipped to meet special group requirements.

What are your terms and conditions?
The terms and conditions for group reservations may differ slightly at each hostel because HI-USA is an association of youth hostels. Our National Sales Manager will provide specific terms and conditions as they pertain to a given hostel during your initial inquiry. However, should you have concerns during any stage the reservation process, please contact her at groups@hiusa.org.

Do I get a discount for booking a group?
Yes, all groups are offered our discounted Group Member rates, additional savings are also offered to groups depending the size of your group, length of stay and time of year. We ask all group leaders to complete a group membership application, found on this website, to assure that your group receives these discounted rates.

Can I book activities for my group?
Our National Sales Manager will be able to help you with additional requirements you may have for the organization of your group trip, including activities.